BEVAN

My name is Bevan, and I’m from Brisbane. I grew up in Hervey Bay, surrounded by cane fields and farm lands, with a restrictive background. 34 years later I openly came out as gay, met my life partner - now husband, and moved to Brisbane. We’ve now been together for 12 years, consummating our commitment to each other, 4 years ago.

I’m heavily involved in the Leather, Kink & Pup community, holding the title for Mr Qld Leather 2022. For me, Leather is about the look, the taste, the feel, the smell…. all arousing the sex and energy that empowers me.

Leather is my passion.

My journey through the leather community has enriched my friendships, my knowledge of Community, Kink, BDSM and the need of practising safe sex practices. This term is very broad, and can be as simple as ensuring your playmate doesn’t suffer injury during a session, extending to protecting yourself against HIV.

Kinky people are often more sexually active, so protection is important.  My husband and I have an open relationship. Until recently, I relied on the tradition methods, but after seeing the campaigns by QC, I knew I needed to take action and investigate the option of being on PrEP.

Initially I consulted my GP that I’d been to for many years. Upon asking for PrEP, his response was “you’re married, you don’t need PrEP”. This set me back a bit, but after a while, I changed doctor. Upon asking my new GP about PrEP, he explained to me the options of doing ‘PrEP On-Demand’ (2+1+1), as well as Full Time Prep, known as ‘Daily-PrEP’ (one pill a day, every day).

These options are important to me, as there are times that I’m not sexually active, and On-Demand PrEP works for me. Otherwise, I can choose Daily-PrEP any time when I choose. These options are important to protecting me, as well as my husband, and playmates. I always consult with my doctor when changing dosing methods, to ensure I do it correctly.

Click HERE to learn about On-Demand PrEP.

I did the initial tests for HIV, STI’s and kidney function. Once I had the prescription, I took Daily-PrEP for a month, going back for blood tests to ensure it wasn’t affecting my kidneys. PrEP had no effect on me, so I’m now on the regular 3-month testing cycle.

I’ve had no side effects since being on PrEP. I’d heard some stories so I was concerned about it, but it didn’t affect me.

You can get your prescription filled at most pharmacies, but I’ve found that not all stock it, even in Brisbane. I’ve now found the reliable ones that keep it on the shelf. Under the PBS scheme, it only costs me $29 which lasts a month when taking Daily-PrEP.

If you’re unsure if your body will react, I still suggest to discuss this with your GP and at least try it. Your GP will closely monitor you, and advise alternative options if it has an adverse effect.

Since being on PrEP, my enjoyment of sex has increased, knowing I can play safely without fear.